T. Lueddecke

Engineering a wolf spider A-family toxin towards increased antimicrobial activity but low toxicity

The paper enhances antimicrobial activity of a spider venom peptide while maintaining low toxicity through bioengineering.

Enlighting the toxinological dark matter of spider venom enzymes

The paper compares spider venom enzymes across databases and datasets, revealing discrepancies and highlighting underrepresented enzyme diversity and functions.

TMPRSS2 is essential for SARS-CoV-2 Beta and Omicron infection

The paper shows TMPRSS2 is essential for SARS-CoV-2 Beta and Omicron infection in mice, highlighting its role as an antiviral target.

An economic dilemma between weapon systems may explain an arachno-atypical venom in wasp spiders (Argiope bruennichi)

This study analyzes the venom of wasp spiders, finding an atypical composition with novel toxins, and proposes that venom simplicity evolved to resolve an economic dilemma between hunting strategies.

Tarantula phylogenomics: A robust phylogeny of multiple tarantula lineages inferred from transcriptome data sheds light on the prickly issue of urticating setae evolution

This study uses transcriptome data to infer a robust phylogeny of tarantulas, revealing new insights into the evolution of urticating setae.